Advance Your Career as a Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist with the VA
Are you a dedicated radiologic professional looking to transition into a career where your daily work directly impacts the lives of those who have served our nation? The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is seeking a motivated Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist to join the Aleda E. Lutz VA Medical Center in Gaylord, Michigan. This is more than just a job; it is an opportunity to contribute to a healthcare system that prioritizes the 'I CARE' values of integrity, advocacy, and respect.
Job Responsibilities
As a Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist, you will be on the front lines of patient care. Your responsibilities will include:
- Performing routine and emergent diagnostic radiographic procedures (cervical, lumbar, thoracic, and extremity).
- Adjusting protocols to accommodate patients with specific mobility or medical challenges.
- Operating digital imaging systems and managing images within the PACS network.
- Ensuring the safety and comfort of patients while maintaining a clean, efficient exam room.
- Assisting clinical staff and maintaining accurate electronic health records.
Requirements
To be considered for this role, you must meet the following criteria:
- Citizenship: Must be a U.S. citizen.
- Certification: Possession of a valid ARRT (R) certification.
- Education: A certificate or associate degree from a JRCERT-accredited 24-month training program.
- Proficiency: Excellent written and verbal English skills.
- Health: Completion of a pre-employment physical and mandatory influenza vaccination requirements.
Grade Level Comparison Table
| Grade Level | Focus Area | Educational/Experience Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| GS-5 | Entry Level | Basic requirements met |
| GS-6 | Development | 1 year experience or 1 year graduate study |
| GS-7 | Technical Adequacy | Proficiency in digital imaging & contrast usage |
| GS-8 | Full Performance | Advanced clinical competencies & performance assessment |
Salary Overview
This position offers a competitive annual salary ranging from $40,736 to $72,644, depending on your qualifications, grade level, and years of clinical experience. The VA is known for offering regular salary increases and federal pay scale advancement.
Benefits
Choosing a career with the VA comes with a robust set of federal benefits, including:
- Extensive paid time off and annual leave accrual.
- A stable, mission-focused work environment.
- Opportunities for professional development and continuous learning.
- Excellent federal health and retirement benefits.
Application Tips
- Be Detailed: Ensure your resume highlights your specific clinical experience, including the types of equipment you have used and the procedures you have performed.
- Check Documents: Have your DD-214, transcripts, and professional licenses ready to upload in the required format.
- Follow Procedures: The VA hiring process is structured. Ensure you follow all instructions provided in the USAJOBS announcement to remain eligible.
Serving our Veterans is a privilege. If you are a compassionate radiologic technologist with the right technical skills, we encourage you to join our team in Gaylord. Your dedication will help provide the personalized, high-quality care that every Veteran deserves.
Why This Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist Job Matters
Transform lives by providing life-saving diagnostic imaging for our nation’s heroes. Join the Aleda E. Lutz VA Medical Center team in Gaylord, Michigan, and advance your radiologic career with a mission that truly matters.
Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist Job Overview
The Department of Veterans Affairs is seeking a skilled and dedicated Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist to join our team in Gaylord, Michigan. In this intermittent role, you will perform essential diagnostic imaging procedures, ensuring our Veterans receive the high-quality care they have earned. You will work within a collaborative, mission-driven environment focused on 'I CARE' core values: Integrity, Commitment, Advocacy, Respect, and Excellence.
Requirements for Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist
- Must be a U.S. Citizen
- Certification in general radiologic technology by the American Registry of Radiologic Technology (ARRT) (R)
- Completion of a 24-month (or equivalent) post-high school diagnostic radiologic technology program accredited by JRCERT or other recognized agency
- Proficiency in spoken and written English
- Must pass a pre-employment physical evaluation
- Subject to drug screening and background security investigations
- Male applicants born after 12/31/1959 must be registered with the Selective Service
- Must comply with mandatory seasonal influenza vaccination programs
Preferred Qualifications for Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist
- Advanced ARRT certification for specialized modalities such as CT, MRI, or Mammography
- Experience in PACS and digital imaging systems
- Strong clinical competency in cross-sectional anatomy and patient positioning
- Demonstrated ability to function independently in complex imaging environments
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive salary with regular increases
- ✓Generous paid time off and leave accrual
- ✓Predictable and flexible scheduling options
- ✓Opportunity to contribute to a noble, mission-driven cause
- ✓Work-life balance focus
- ✓Comprehensive federal benefits package
💡 How to Apply Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist Job
- Create or log into your account on the USAJOBS portal
- Review the full job announcement requirements and required document list
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire
- Upload your resume, professional certifications, and educational transcripts
- Submit your application package before the 11:59 PM ET closing date
💡 General Tips
- Be specific in your resume—do not leave room for assumptions regarding your clinical experience.
- Ensure your long-form resume clearly maps your experience to the required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs).
- Check your application status regularly through the USAJOBS portal.
- Submit your documentation early to avoid last-minute technical issues.
- Double-check that your transcripts and certifications are legible and officially recognized.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the typical work schedule for this position?
This is an intermittent position with a typical schedule of Monday through Friday, from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM.
Is a background check required?
Yes, all selected applicants must undergo a background and security investigation, as well as a pre-employment physical and drug screening.
Can I use foreign education to qualify?
Yes, but you must provide a Certificate of Foreign Equivalency along with your transcripts to receive credit.
What if I don't have an advanced ARRT certification?
*A: While advanced certification is preferred for specialized modalities, the VA may provide on-the-job training in certain areas to support your growth.*
Is relocation assistance provided?
*A: Relocation or recruitment incentives are not authorized for this specific vacancy.*
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Veterans Health Administration is the largest integrated healthcare system in the United States. We are committed to providing world-class care to our Veterans. Working for the VA means becoming part of a community that values clinical excellence, patient-centered care, and a supportive environment for our medical staff.